New Nevada Law Impacts Classic Car Owners

In a recent development, the Nevada legislature has passed a bill that impacts classic car owners, modifying the conditions for obtaining special license plates and registration certificates. The new law alters the guidelines for vehicles that qualify as Old Timer vehicles, classic rods, or classic vehicles, which are now exempt from certain emissions regulations provided they are not used for general transportation.

General transportation is defined as driving the vehicle more than 5,000 miles during the immediately preceding year. Classic cars may still be used for club activities, exhibitions, tours, parades, or similar events, as well as for necessary operation and maintenance activities.

Under the new legislation, classic car owners who choose to use their vehicles for general transportation will not be issued special license plates or registration certificates. Furthermore, they must comply with emissions control regulations. If a classic car used for general transportation fails an emissions test, it will be ineligible for special license plates for a period of 90 days.

For a classic car to receive special license plates and a registration certificate, owners must provide proof of insurance specifically designed for classic or antique vehicles, or an endorsement that is specifically designated for classic or antique vehicles.

The new law also impacts the fees for the issuance and renewal of an inspector's license for each additional location, capping it at $2. Additionally, new motor vehicles will be exempt from emissions tests until their fourth registration, which is the first three years of the vehicle's life, with annual tests required thereafter.

For counties with a population of 100,000 or more, such as Clark and Washoe Counties, the legislation authorizes the imposition of an additional fee for each form certifying emissions control compliance. The funds collected from these additional fees must be used to support local air pollution control agency programs, with at least 50 percent of the funds benefiting historically underserved communities.

The new law brings significant changes for classic car owners in Nevada, particularly in terms of restrictions on general transportation usage and emissions compliance.